Two Iranian nationals have been charged with terror offences over an alleged plot targeting the Jewish community in Manchester, UK.
Rahman Salehi, 34, of Salford, and Salam Ahmadyan, 36, of Liverpool, are accused of preparing to carry out an act of terrorism or assisting another person to do so on or before September 20.
The men were arrested in Manchester’s Northern Quarter on the eve of Yom Kippur, one of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar.
Counter Terrorism Police allege that the suspects were in contact with a third party overseas, who may be in Iran, in connection with the alleged plot.
Police said the men allegedly obtained instructions to make a chlorine bomb, acquired liquids, components and equipment for the device, researched possible targets and carried out reconnaissance of potential attack locations.
Searches were also conducted at addresses in Epworth Street, Liverpool, and Lancaster Road, Salford.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the suspects arrived in the UK by small boat in 2020 and 2023. One was granted asylum, while the other has an active asylum claim.
Mahmood said the charges would be distressing for Manchester’s Jewish community, particularly as the city marks one year since the attack on Heaton Park Synagogue.
Greater Manchester Police Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods said security and policing operations around Jewish communities would continue during the Jewish High Holy Days.
The two suspects are scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Saturday.
